Alternative Names

Amino acids blood test

How the Test is Performed

A blood sample is needed. The area (usually the heel) is cleansed with germ-killing solution, and the skin is punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood collects into a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.

The blood sample is sent to a lab. Chromatography is used to determine the amino acids levels in the blood.

High or low concentrations of individual plasma amino acids must be interpreted along with other clinical information. Abnormal results may be due to diet, hereditary problems with the ability of the body to handle the amino acid, or to drug effects.